As the countdown to the New Year begins, a surge in online greetings is expected across social media platforms. However, the Patna cyber police have issued a stark warning that this festive spirit is being targeted by cybercriminals with sophisticated and deceptive tactics.
How the New Year Scam Operates
Nitish Chandra Dhariya, the Deputy Superintendent of Police (Cyber) in Patna, explained the modus operandi. He stated that fraudsters are actively sending suspicious links or APK files under the attractive guise of New Year greetings. These messages are circulating on popular platforms like WhatsApp, Messenger, Instagram, and other social media chat sites.
The scam often appears deceptively simple. You might receive a message saying, "Happy New Year! Click here for your special greetings" or "A New Year gift is waiting for you." Alarmingly, these messages can even appear to come from known contacts whose accounts have been previously compromised. The core deception involves tricking the recipient into downloading an APK file, which might be named something innocent like "HappyNewYear2026.apk." The promise is to view an animated card or claim a festive reward.
The Hidden Danger of Festive Files
DSP Dhariya emphasized that installing such files is where the real danger lies. These APK files quietly introduce malware onto the victim's smartphone. Once installed, the malicious software can gain unauthorized access to a wealth of sensitive personal data and, most critically, banking applications and services. This access can lead to severe financial losses for those who fall into the trap.
The police official advised citizens to cultivate a habit of pausing and thinking before downloading any link or file sent as a congratulatory message. "Take a moment to think, verify the source, and only proceed if it is genuinely safe—otherwise, you risk falling victim to cyber theft," he cautioned.
Essential Safety Guidelines from Cyber Experts
To safeguard themselves during the festive season and beyond, the Patna cyber police recommend several key precautions:
- Avoid clicking on unknown or unsolicited links, especially those that require you to install an additional app just to "view" a greeting.
- Stick to consuming straightforward text messages, images, or videos that come directly from trusted contacts.
- Be extra vigilant if a contact sends a message that seems out of character, even if it appears to be from a friend or family member.
- Never download APK files from unofficial or unverified sources, regardless of how enticing the offer may seem.
The overarching message from the authorities is clear: while sharing joy online, maintaining digital vigilance is paramount to ensure the New Year begins on a safe and secure note.
